2008 BMW 318 vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. (134 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 318 | 230 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 11.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
